Brazil wary of Welsh wing wizard

Brazil are aware of Giggs' dribbling skills

Wales v Brazil, Millennium Stadium, Tuesday 23 May k.o. 1930 BST

Brazilian coach Wanderley Luxemburgo has spoken about how highly he rates Ryan Giggs.

Luxemburgo says he is fully aware of the damage the Welsh wing wizard is capable of.

The man in charge of the world's number one ranked international team believes a fully fit Giggs could outshine his stars for Tuesday night's friendly in Cardiff.

Luxemburgo was more than willing to praise the Manchester United winger, but when asked if Giggs was good enough to play for Brazil, he answered diplomatically: "I dare not answer such a question.

Giggs is a great player, but I too have great players in my side

Wanderley Luxemburgo

"If I was to say that I wanted Ryan Giggs in my side, my team would be upset!"

Giggs, carrying a slight thigh injury which kept him out of training on Monday, would seem to hold Wales' only chance of producing a shock result at the Millennium Stadium.

Luxemburgo added: "Giggs is a great player, but I too have great players in my side.

"We know all about Giggs, everybody in the world knows him and what Manchester United have done."

Respect Wales

The Brazilians arrived at Heathrow from South America on Monday afternoon with their European-based stars, including Rivaldo and Roberto Carlos jetting straight into Cardiff, where they managed an hour-long training session.

"We expect a strong, tough match," said Luxemburgo, who side face England at Wembley on Saturday.

"No matter about the world rankings, we will give Wales every respect. We have reports that they have more good players than just Giggs."

Tough match

Bayer Leverkusen star Emerson, who suffered the agony of missing out on the German championship on Sunday, also underlined Brazil's concerns about Giggs.

He said: "We all know about Giggs and what he can do on the pitch. He has great ability.

"Wales will be a tough match, and we all know how much of a risk it is playing against teams in Europe and the style they play."

Brazil will be without striker Romario on Tuesday night.

The veteran star was injured in a domestic league match on Sunday and will also miss Saturday's trip to Wembley.

Real Betis forward Denilson was a late addition to the squad and he could start the match alongside Rivaldo.